Niacin Support is controlled release vitamin B3 (Niacin), a water-soluble, essential vitamin that in higher doses has a remarkable ability to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and raise good HDL cholesterol in the blood. Niacin has been used for many years to improve circulation and lower cholesterol. No one questions the effectiveness of niacin for these purposes. However, with modern pharmaceuticals now advertised for cholesterol and triglyceride reduction, the natural vitamin niacin has become the “forgotten treatment” for treating cholesterol and triglycerides.

Function of Niacin

Recent statistics confirm that one out of every two Americans will have a heart attack or stroke! For prevention, we must address our risk factors! Niacin lowers harmful triglycerides and VLDL and LDL cholesterol by reducing production of fats in the liver. Niacin also prevents bad LDL cholesterol from becoming small and dense (the form that sticks to arteries). Niacin improves circulation by dilating blood vessels. It is used for Raynaud’s disease and other circulatory impairment disorders. Niacin has been shown to lower men’s risk of a second non-fatal heart attack and reduce risk of death from heart disease (11% lower risk of death over a 15 year time period, with average life span 2 years longer).

Is it safe? And what about that skin” rash”?

Niacin is generally considered safe and effective to improve cholesterol and triglycerides. However, possible side effects from niacin may include skin flushing, itching, stomach upset, nausea, and headache. The skin flushing is common, harmless and is caused by the release of prostaglandins that dilate blood vessels. This dilation of the blood vessels may be one of the mechanisms by which niacin lowers heart attack risk. I consider it a “therapeutic flush”.

Elevated liver enzymes can occur. We recommend monitoring liver function tests periodically in those taking 2 or more tablets daily. Some studies have shown a minimal increase in blood sugars with niacin. Niacin may be used with prescription “statin” medications, red yeast rice, fiber, and other lipid lowering drugs.

What are the Benefits From Niacin Supplementation? Multiple risk factors for heart attack and stroke improve!

Lower Total Cholesterol/HDL ratio (<3.5 ideal): Levels of this highly predictive risk factor in one study lowered 27% with just 2 tablets daily (1,000 mg niacin). A 20% reduction has been shown with 500 mg per day.

Lower LDL Cholesterol: Levels drop up to 10%, depending on dose. Makes LDL larger, less likely to stick to arteries.

Lowers Lipoprotein (a): Lp(a) is considered another independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Niacin has lowered Lp(a) 20% with 2,000 mg per day.

Lower Fibrinogen (Risk for heart attacks, increases blood clotting).

Improves circulation in fingers, toes, skin.

Is All Niacin The Same?

There are several different versions of niacin on the market. Due to lack of effectiveness, we do not recommend “flush-free” niacin. It does not work. Our formulation is manufactured with the highest “Good Manufacturing Practices” standards and releases 500 mg of pure niacin over 2-3 hours to minimize the flushing sensation and itching that can occur, but maintain effectiveness.

Summary

Niacin Support is natural vitamin B3, also known as nicotinic acid. Side effects are most often due to flushing, which may be ignored since it is harmless and may be beneficial. It lasts typically < 30 minutes. Flushing may be minimized by: 1. Avoid taking with warm beverages or alcohol. 2. Take at bedtime or with food on your stomach. 3. An aspirin 30 minutes before the niacin will minimize any flushing.

Niacin often very effectively lowers triglycerides, LDL, VLDL cholesterol, and impressively raises HDL cholesterol. Those with circulation impairment may find benefit. Know your cholesterol numbers and achieve the goals above if possible, especially T. Chol/HDL < 3.5. Make your goal to not be in the 50% of Americans who will have a heart attack or stroke.

Typically, I recommend 1 tab daily at bedtime the first week to adjust to any flushing, then 2 at bedtime (1,000 mg). This dose has been shown to give 20-30% improvement in HDL and T. Cholesterol / HDL ratio. 3 or more tablets daily are often needed to also improve triglycerides and LDL. A dose of 4-6 tablets daily may be needed by some for maximum effect. Niacin may be used with other cholesterol and triglyceride treatments.

For those seeking optimal weight and metabolic health, a comprehensive nutrition and fitness plan, including calorie control and optimal nutrient intake, based on your personal needs, is always recommended.

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Family Practice News, Aug 15, 2005,

JAMA, Vol 296, No. 10, Sep 13, 2006

AJCN, Vol 81, No. 1, 122-129, Jan 2005

AJCN, Vol. 87, No. 3, 778-784 March 2008

Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol. 29, No 1, 31-40 (2010)